LessonsFour Relations Between Universals and Relative ParticularityQuiz

For any term, ask two different questions:
Question 1: Does its precise conceived identity exclude application to many distinct individuals? If so, it may be a real particular.
Question 2: Is it more specific than some wider concept under which it falls? If so, it is a relative particular in that comparison.

Zayd: a specified individual falling under human — both.
Human: applicable to many and falling under animal — relative, not real.

The distinction separates the identity of an individual from the position of a species within a wider genus.

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A diagnostic test for both senses

Four Relations Between Universals and Relative Particularity

For any term, ask two different questions:
Question 1: Does its precise conceived identity exclude application to many distinct individuals? If so, it may be a real particular.
Question 2: Is it more specific than some wider concept under which it falls? If so, it is a relative particular in that comparison.

Zayd: a specified individual falling under human — both.
Human: applicable to many and falling under animal — relative, not real.

The distinction separates the identity of an individual from the position of a species within a wider genus.